The 2024 New York Mets season was a rollercoaster of emotions, marked by tumultuous losing streaks and exhilarating comebacks. The team began its campaign with a disappointing 0-5 start, a run that left fans questioning whether the Mets would live up to their potential. However, an early-season surge saw the squad rebounding with a commendable 12-3 run, rekindling hope and optimism in the Mets' faithful.
Despite their early promise, the team hit another rough patch, losing 27 of their next 39 games. The inconsistency could have easily doomed their season, but the Mets showed resilience. From June onward, they went on a remarkable 65-38 run that transformed their narrative from underachievers to contenders.
Securing Postseason Glory
The defining moment of their regular season came in the penultimate game against the Atlanta Braves. A dramatic ninth-inning home run secured their spot in the postseason, a testament to the tenacity that characterized their year. This pivotal victory was followed by a Wild Card Series against the Milwaukee Brewers, where the Mets prevailed in Game 3, thanks to yet another decisive home run.
However, their postseason journey concluded in the National League Championship Series (NLCS) against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Despite the valiant effort, the Mets were bested by a team that eventually would move on to face the New York Yankees in the World Series.
Outstanding Performances
Several players stood out during the Mets’ memorable season. Francisco Lindor emerged as an MVP candidate, showcasing his prowess and leadership on the field. Likewise, Pete Alonso delivered impressive power at the plate, hitting 34 home runs during the season, bringing his career total to 219 since his debut in 2019. The slugger, who will turn 30 in December 2024, is set to become a free agent in the offseason, adding an intriguing subplot to the Mets’ future plans.
The Mets' starting rotation deserves recognition for the pivotal role they played throughout the season. Anchored by Sean Manaea, Jose Quintana, and Luis Severino, the trio made at least 31 starts each, displaying consistency with ERAs no worse than 3.91. Alongside David Peterson, the rotation featured prominently in 115 of the team’s 162 games, boasting a collective ERA of 3.56.
Looking Forward
With Manaea, Quintana, and Severino also entering free agency, the Mets’ front office is poised for an active offseason, keen on bolstering their roster. Their late-season performance has positioned them as a team to watch, with an eye towards strengthening their starting pitching to solidify their status as genuine contenders next season.
As the Mets reflect on 2024, there’s much to be proud of and much to consider. The team's capacity to rebound from adversity and the performances of its standout players have provided a foundation for future success. The coming months will be crucial as they aim to build on their late-season success and transform a promising narrative into championship contention.